The Chiefs have been active this off-season with new GM John Dorsey and new head coach Andy Reid. After pulling the trigger on an Alex Smith trade for their 2013 2nd round selection, the Chiefs answered their short (and potentially long) term quarterback question mark.
And after today’s news that they have signed receiver Dwayne Bowe and franchised offensive lineman Brandon Albert, the Chiefs perceived options for their first overall selection has dwindled a bit and become clearer.
First, it’s important to point out three major factors that will now influence the Chiefs first overall selection.
1.) Now franchised Brandon Albert doesn’t entirely mean that he’s in their long-term plans nor that they feel he’s a tackle for the future. They brought back one of their best offensive lineman, though it’s perceived that (thanks to them having two young guards and a highly paid right tackle) he’s their projected left tackle in 2013.
2.) Alex Smith is the quarterback now for the Chiefs. But despite being just 28 years old (the same age as still improving Joe Flacco), he’s likely not in their long term plans. While it’s highly unlikely, a quarterback shouldn’t be entirely ruled out.
3.) Despite the Chiefs investing in Glenn Dorsey, Tyson Jackson, and Dontari Poe in recent years, keep in mind that this new regime had NOTHING to do with those prospects. It’s nearly impossible to feel how they’d value those pieces long term.
With that, here are the options remaining for the Chiefs for the first overall pick:
Star Lotulelei, DT, Utah
-My most recent projection for the Chiefs, Lotulelei can fill the nose tackle role that the Chiefs need for their 3-4 defense. The biggest question mark will be his heart condition, but if he can answer that at his Pro Day, he should be locked into this pick. He’s been pigeonholed as their top player after the offensive tackles since the Senior Bowl.
Sharrif Floyd, DT, Florida
–Floyd wouldn’t fill the nose tackle role for the Chiefs if he was the pick, but his elite athletic upside as a potential 5-technique may be too good to pass up. Andy Reid loves stocking up on talented defensive lineman, and Floyd has risen since he declared to being a near-lock for the Top 10 picks.
Sheldon Richardson, DT, Missouri
-Our top rated defensive tackle in this class, Richardson has some character question marks to answer. But on film, there isn’t a more athletic defensive tackle in this class. He’s able to win with his first step, generates force well with his initial punch, and moves laterally well enough to even impress in 3-4 outside linebacker drills if he was allowed to test there. He could fit as a 3-4 nose tackle, but regardless, his talent level is through the roof and intriguing enough for each Top 10 to consider.
Eric Fisher/Luke Joeckel, OT
-Both offensive tackles are fighting for the top of the position rankings spot. However, neither are now expected first overall selections. With the Chiefs seeming to be in “win-now” mode by re-signing Bowe, trading for Smith, and franchising Brandon Albert, offensive tackle isn’t a major need. If they had to pick one, I’d speculate it’s the more position versatile Eric Fisher than Luke Joeckel, especially since Andy Reid values athleticism in his offensive linemen.
Dee Milliner, CB, Alabama
-Milliner is the most intriguing potential selection for the Chiefs at #1 overall because there has never been a defensive back to go 1st overall in NFL history. Milliner’s wowing Combine numbers combined with his experience in Alabama’s system is intriguing, but it’d be a huge shock if the Chiefs went Milliner first overall considering they already have Brandon Flowers and they can get other CBs with much better value in the 3rd or 4th round, as well as free agency.
Geno Smith, QB, West Virginia
-As I said earlier, ruling out quarterback would be naïve. However, with Alex Smith in the fold along with Andy Reid’s love of developing mid-round quarterbacks, adding a 1-2 year backup in Geno Smith when the team doesn’t have a 2nd rounder this year would be a poor choice. Zac Dysert or EJ Manuel in the 3rd round makes much more sense.
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